Former Ukrainian Defence Minister Challenges Zelensky Over Wartime Elections
The sacked minister argues democracy cannot be held hostage by Russia as President Volodymyr Zelensky seeks parliamentary approval for a new defence chief.
Mykhailo Fedorov, the former Ukrainian defence minister dismissed last month, has publicly called for the restoration of presidential elections, marking a significant challenge to President Volodymyr Zelensky’s continued leadership. In a video posted to YouTube on Tuesday, Fedorov argued that democracy cannot be held hostage by Russia and insisted that Ukraine must establish a legal mechanism to restore democratic processes despite the ongoing conflict.
The call comes as martial law, introduced in February 2022, legally suspends elections even though Zelensky’s five-year term officially ended in May 2024. Fedorov, who did not mention the president by name, cited a systemic crisis of governance and corruption as key factors undermining the war effort. He stated that Ukraine is fighting to remain a free European state and requires a realistic framework to maintain its democratic integrity.
Fedorov’s demand follows his unexpected dismissal from the defence ministry just six months after his appointment, a move widely attributed to tensions with army commander-in-chief Oleksandr Syrskyi. Syrskyi was replaced within days as protests erupted across Ukraine calling for Fedorov’s reinstatement. Although offered other government posts, including deputy prime minister for military innovation, Fedorov has maintained he would only return as defence minister.
Concurrently, President Zelensky has moved to stabilise the defence ministry by nominating acting defence minister Yevhenii Khmara for parliamentary approval. A vote on the nomination is scheduled for Wednesday, with the president seeking to formalise the leadership structure and address the institutional uncertainties that emerged during the interim period. Zelensky has yet to respond publicly to Fedorov’s video address.
While Fedorov’s tenure was credited with energising the ministry through data-driven performance analysis and high-tech procurement, including drone warfare initiatives, his call for elections has drawn criticism. Some Ukrainian commentators, including supporters of his reinstatement, argued that holding elections during the war is impossible. The debate intensifies as Ukraine continues to launch long-range drone strikes on Russian territory, prompting warnings from Moscow and reaffirmations of support from UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham.
